Tragic FSU Shooting: Two Lives Lost, Six Injured; Suspect Arrested – What We Know

On Thursday, tragedy struck Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee when an active shooter opened fire, killing two people and injuring six others. The situation began around noon when police received reports of gunfire near the student union.

The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, is an FSU student and the son of a Leon County sheriff’s deputy. After being shot by police, Ikner was taken into custody but chose not to speak with authorities. Investigators discovered that he had used his mother’s former service weapon during the incident, along with a shotgun.

Authorities revealed that Ikner had been involved with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, participating in community programs and advisory councils. Sheriff Walter McNeil expressed sorrow over the events, stating, “Unfortunately, her son had access to one of her weapons.”

The victims of this shooting were not students, and their names have not been disclosed. As the investigation continues, multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are on site to assist local authorities.

In the aftermath, students shared their shock and fear. Ava Arenado, an FSU student, recalled how her class reacted upon receiving a warning alert, leading them to barricade the door and seek safety. Blake Leonard, another student, recounted hearing over 30 shots fired. Initially mistaking the gunfire for construction noise, he soon realized the danger when he saw others fleeing.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his condolences via Twitter, saying, “Our prayers are with our FSU family.” Meanwhile, President Trump commented on the incident, acknowledging its severity but emphasizing his support for the Second Amendment.

This event is part of a troubling trend. According to the Gun Violence Archive, 2025 has already seen 80 mass shootings in the U.S., marking a steep increase from the previous year, which recorded 502 incidents. The definition of a mass shooting includes events where four or more people are shot, not counting the shooter. This persistent rise in gun violence raises questions about public safety and gun regulations in the current climate.

The university has canceled classes and events for the rest of the week as a precautionary measure. This shooting is not the first of its kind at FSU; in 2014, three people were shot in the library, which added to sensitivities around campus safety. The community grapples once again with the tragic impact of gun violence.

The topics of mental health and gun control continue to be hotly debated, especially as incidents like this can trigger emotional responses and calls for change. Engaging in conversations about prevention and support may be crucial in moving forward and ensuring the safety of students and the wider community.

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Florida State University, Florida, Mass Shooting, Crime